A user interface is simply the interface between an application and the user of an application. The primary goal of a user interface is to help user interface designers easily create applications that increase user effectiveness and satisfaction.

Some commonalities between the guidelines and principles above include: Put the user in control, Provide Feedback and Forgiveness, Maintain Clarity Visually and Verbally, Know Your Audience, Design with Consistency and Visibility in Mind (WYSIWYG), Provide Context, and Optimize for Utility.